What does DIB mean in HOSPITALS

Difficulty in breathing (DIB) is typically caused by conditions such as asthma, allergies, or infections that interfere with normal lung function. Other causes may include bronchitis or emphysema. Stress can also contribute to the sensation of breathlessness.

Yes! Simple lifestyle modifications like avoiding triggers that lead to episodes of breathlessness or exercising regularly can help manage symptoms of DIB without medications. However, it is important to talk with your doctor first before trying any new treatments as some treatments may not be safe for you due to other medical conditions.

Signs and symptoms associated with DIB include feeling out of breath even when at rest, shortness of breath upon exertion (walking up stairs), chest tightness/pain, coughing, increased heart rate and wheezing/noisy breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms it is important to speak to your doctor as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

DIB can be serious; if left untreated it can lead to respiratory failure or death. Therefore it is important to seek medical attention right away if you have any concerning symptoms or are feeling exceptionally short of breath.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause but common treatments include medication (such as inhalers and nebulizers), oxygen therapy, lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking/avoiding triggers like pollen or dust mites if affected by asthma or allergies respectively and surgery in certain cases where the obstruction causing the difficulty in breathing cannot be addressed through medicine alone (e.g removal of impacted mucus from lungs).